Getting an Out-of-State Interview

If you live in a city with limited career opportunities and plan to move out of state to improve your job prospects, there are a few steps you can take to increase your chances of landing interviews. Follow these three tips to enhance the results of your out-of-state job search and ease employers' fears about considering your application.

1. Create an Impressive Applicant Package

As an out-of-state job applicant, it's vital to stand out among other candidates, especially in a highly competitive job market. One way to do this is to create a highly impressive applicant package that makes employers take notice. This package should include a professional resume that caters to the specific company and position, a relevant cover letter, job recommendation letters, samples of previous industry-relevant work and the names and contact information of your references. Send this package to the hiring manager. Before mailing the documents, call the company and speak to the manager to let him know you're extremely interested in joining the team. Verify the company address, and let the manager know your materials are on the way.

2. Solicit Help From Friends, Family and Former Classmates

If you have a specific city in mind, contact your relatives and friends in that city and let them know about your out-of-state job search efforts and plans to relocate. Provide as many details as possible about your relocation, and ask someone you trust if it is okay to receive work-related mail at their address. You might even consider staying with a friend or relative when you fly in for interviews to save on lodging fees. If this is your plan, let potential employers know which dates you'll be in the city, and ask to schedule interviews on those days.

It's also a good idea to contact former classmates or anyone you know who lives in the city and works in your industry; these people can be a great resource. If possible, find out about upcoming networking events or any industry-related gatherings, and make plans to attend so you can meet professionals in your new city who can connect you with employers.

3. Join National Organizations

It's in the best interest of any out-of-state job applicant to join a national industry-related organization. This is one of the best ways to meet people from around the country who work in your field. Through national organizations, you can connect with hiring managers and other industry leaders who share your passion; you never know if the people you meet are looking for others to join their team.

Online organizations are just as beneficial to your out-of-state job hunt, as frequently commenting on an organization's blog or articles allows you to make a name for yourself within the industry. If organizational leaders know who you are and are accustomed to reading your responses to their online materials, they are more likely to offer you interview opportunities when they arise, no matter where you live.

If you're ready to take your professional life in a new direction, follow these tips to ensure you get the best possible results when searching for an out-of-state job. The process might require a little more effort, but the opportunity to begin or advance your career and broaden your horizons makes the effort well worth it.

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